How to Hire the Best Moving Companies in 2025

Choosing the best moving company is like picking the right teammate for a big game—your success depends on their experience, reliability, and ability to handle the pressure. 

After all, you’re trusting them with everything you own, and the last thing you want is to end up with a fumble.

Did you know that over 10,000 consumer complaints are filed against moving companies each year? About 30% of those involve issues like damaged items, delays, or hidden fees.

This shows just how crucial it is to research and communicate clearly when hiring professional movers to avoid costly surprises.

But with so many options out there, it can be a bit overwhelming.

From comparing quotes to knowing the right questions to ask, it might feel like you’re diving into a whole new world. That’s exactly why we’re here!

We’ll explain everything you need to know about hiring movers and ensure your move goes smoothly.

Why Hiring the Right Moving Company Matters

Moving is stressful enough without worrying about whether your movers will show up on time or treat your belongings with care.

That’s where hiring professional movers makes a difference. The right team brings more than just muscle; they bring experience, proper equipment, and a plan tailored to your move.

Professional movers don’t just lighten the physical load—they give you peace of mind. So, while a DIY move might seem cheaper upfront, the value of hiring professional movers lies in their reliability, efficiency, and accountability.

How to Find the Best Moving Companies

Now that you know why hiring professional movers can be your best option, the next big question is—how do you find reliable movers in a sea of options?

Recommendations from friends/family: Start with what you already trust. Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they’ve had any good (or bad) experiences with moving companies.

Online platforms: Use trusted sites like BBB and Google to check reviews. A strong online presence often signals the best moving companies.

Local vs. national movers: Understand your requirements. If it’s a local move, local movers offer familiarity, while national ones bring scale. Choose based on your move type to find the best moving company.

Things to Consider When Hiring Movers

You’ve done the hard part. Now, how do you choose the right one? There are a few key things to consider when hiring movers that will help ensure you’re getting the best service for your needs.

• Services Offered: Make sure the company handles the type of move you need (local, long-distance) and offers additional services like packing or handling fragile items.
• Licensing and Insurance: Always verify the company’s licensing and insurance to protect your belongings.
• Experience and Reputation: Look for a company with proven experience. Check customer reviews for insights into their reliability and professionalism.
• Pricing Structure: Understand the cost breakdown. Ensure there are no hidden fees and get multiple quotes to compare prices.

How to Hire a Moving Company

Now that you know how to find reliable movers, it’s time to examine the hiring process in more detail with a moving company checklist.

Research and Compare Companies

Start by looking up companies that fit your needs. Read their websites and services to narrow down your options.

Read Reviews and Testimonials

Check reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and BBB. Honest feedback from past clients can give you a clearer idea of what to expect.

Check Licensing and Insurance

Ensure the company is licensed and insured. This protects you from potential issues during the move, especially with valuable or fragile items.

Get Multiple Quotes

Request quotes from several companies. This allows you to compare prices and services, ensuring you choose a mover that fits your budget and needs.

Finalize Based on Comparison

After reviewing your options, select the best moving company that best meets your expectations. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—consider the quality of service and customer satisfaction, too.

Essential Questions to Ask Moving Companies

Before you sign anything, here are some key questions to ask moving companies:

• Are you licensed and insured?
•  This is non-negotiable. Ensure the company has the proper credentials to safely and legally handle your belongings.
• Can you provide references?
•  A reputable company should be able to offer references from previous customers. Contact these clients to hear about their experiences.
• What is your claims process?
•  Understand how the company handles damage or loss. Knowing its process in advance will save you from surprises later.
• How do you handle fragile or high-value items?
•  If you have valuable or fragile items, ensure the movers have experience and proper equipment for handling them securely.

Moving Company Checklist: Don’t Skip These Steps

Here’s a timeline-based checklist to guide you from the moment you start planning your move until the big day:

4 Weeks Before the Move

Research and Compare: Start by researching and comparing different moving companies. Check online reviews, ratings, and references.

Get Quotes: Contact multiple companies for estimates. Ask for a breakdown of the costs and services included.

Finalize Your List: Narrow your options to a few reputable movers and review their terms and conditions.

1 Week Before the Move

Confirm Details: Reconfirm the date and time with your selected movers and ensure they have the correct details about your move.

Prepare for Packing: If you’re packing yourself, start gathering packing supplies. If not, ensure the movers know the need for packing assistance.

Prepare an Inventory: Make a list of all your items, especially fragile or high-value ones, and share it with your moving company.

Moving Day 

Check in with the Movers: On the day of your move, check in with the movers to ensure everything is on track.

Supervise the Process: Be present to supervise the loading and unloading process, ensuring everything is handled as agreed.

Double-Check the Inventory: Before the movers leave, verify that all your items have arrived safely and are intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Moving Company

Now that you know the entire process, it’s time to get organized. To ensure your move goes off without a hitch, let’s discuss the common mistakes to avoid when hiring a moving company.